In loving memory of

Thomas Joseph O'Mara
April 8, 1941 - December 10, 2017

Tom O'Mara, author, salesman, and advocate passed away on December 10, 2017 after a long illness at the age of 76. Tom was the middle of 7 O'Mara's growing up in Chicago. Tom lived one day at a time with a positive attitude and willingness to help others.

Tom was preceded in death by his daughters Heather and Tabitha, his sister Maureen, brother Robert, nephew Timothy Mongoven, and parents Ellen and Francis O'Mara.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Eileen (McCabe), sisters Patricia Mongoven, Mary Ellen Fitzgerald, brothers Rev. Dennis O'Mara, Stephen and Judy and many nieces and nephews.

After the death of his daughter, Heather, in the United Flight 232 crash in Souix City, Iowa on July 19, 1989, Tom became an advocate for Air Safety issues working with Ralph Nader and other safety oriented organizations. Child seats on airplanes and other safety innovations resulted from this work. Tom's interest in safe skies persisted throughout his life.

Tom moved from Chicago to New York with the Chicago Sun Times living in Ridgewood, New Jersey. Then working as a Sales Manager for the Wall Street Journal in Stamford, CT., Tom's sales record was excellent. Tom focused on real estate sales after moving to Reno, NV. Then, after moving to Stacy, MN in 1999 he sold real estate for Edina Realty.

Tom graduated from Loyola University in Chicago with a major in English and later with an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson in New Jersey. A life long learner and student, Tom created an eclectic library enjoying mysteries and history.

Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM Friday, December 15th with visitation beginning one hour prior at St. Bridget's of Sweden, 13060 Lake Blvd., Lindstrom. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Minnesota Recovery Connection.

Tributes

Nicole Paulus wrote on Jan 30, 2018:

"My deepest condolences. My name is Nicole Paulus and I spent one year as a foreign exchange student with Tom. Eileen, we met once in Stamford, maybe you remember me. I'm very sorry about Tom's passing, I will never forget his kindness, his warmth, his friendship, his cheerfullnes and the way he welcomed me in 1971/72. My expression of sympathy to you, Eileen, and to his family and friends!"

Cheryl Wehofer wrote on Dec 14, 2017:

"Our deepest condolences on Tom's passing"

Tara wrote on Dec 12, 2017:

"I'm so sorry for your family's loss. May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time. 2 Cor 1:3,4. You have my condolences."

Andy Barnitz wrote on Dec 11, 2017:

"You will be missed Uncle Tom! I always enjoyed our conversations about life and the many laughs we shared. Your robust laugh and larger than life personality will be missed! The only solace is that you will finally be reunited with your daughters who will welcome you with open arms. Also, I would like to wish Aunt Eileen much strength as you say good bye to your partner and best friend...We are thinking of you! "